De Samenhang tussen Emotieregulatie en Kwaliteit van Leven van Kinderen in Gezinnen Waarvan één van de Ouders Kanker heeft (gehad)

Abstract

Aim This study examines whether the emotion regulation of children, in families of which one of the parents has cancer, was related to the quality of life of these children. In addition, we investigated whether there were gender and age-differences in the emotion regulation and quality of life, and in the relationship between emotion regulation and quality of life of these children. Method Families consisting of children aged 6 to 18 and a parent who has cancer could sign up through voluntary participation. A total of 93 children participated in this study (Mage= 12.13, SDage= 3,07, Girls; 46,2%). The participants reported on emotion regulation by the BRIEF questionnaire Executive Functions and on quality of life by the KIDSCREEN-27. Results The results show significant correlations between emotion regulation and quality of life. No significant gender and age differences were found in emotion regulation. However, age differences were found in quality of life. No significant gender and age differences were found in the relationship between emotion regulation and quality of life. It can be concluded that the effect of emotion regulation on quality of life does not differ for boys and girls of different ages. Conclusion The results show significant correlations between emotion regulation and quality of life. In addition, the results show that the older children become, the lower they judge their quality of life. Interventions specified to the specific needs of children in different age categories are necessary to increase the quality of life of these children in this difficult period in their lives. Future research is needed to identify which factors contribute to the reduction of the quality of life of these children.